Know the Law TVLGs Parent Guide to E-Bike Classes and Where Kids Can Ride
With Gilbert considering local e-bike safety measures, The Valley Law Group (TVLG) explains Arizona’s three-class system, where kids can ride legally, and practical steps parents can take now.
Parents across the East Valley are seeing the same thing: teens and preteens riding electric bikes and stand-up scooters through neighborhoods, often at speeds well above typical pedal bicycles and not always in places where riding is allowed. On a typical day in Gilbert, drivers may encounter roughly 20 solo or paired riders, about 10 small groups of three to five, and around five groups of six to 12. About twice a week, there may be a larger group of 12 or more that is not near a school at dismissal time. Many of us have had near-miss moments, braking hard when a rider appears from behind a hedge or a parked SUV. Limited sight lines, mixed rider experience, and higher assisted speeds (Class 3 assistance up to 28 mph) create closing speeds that can surprise even careful drivers (Arizona Revised Statutes § 28-819, 2025). It has become a regular topic in neighborhood conversations, school pick-up lines, and client calls as parents ask for clarity and drivers ask for predictability.
As Gilbert officials examine local options to reduce injuries and continue education through Know Your Ride, The Valley Law Group (TVLG) is releasing a plain-English guide to help families understand current Arizona law, how Gilbert’s efforts fit in, and what could change if new rules are adopted (KJZZ, 2025; 12News, 2025a; Gilbert Police Department, 2025a, 2025b). “Most parents want two clear answers: where their kids can legally ride and what the real risks are if they do not follow the rules,” said a TVLG spokesperson. “Arizona’s three-class e-bike framework is straightforward once you see how classes and path rules work. Gilbert’s education push is a good moment for families to reset expectations at home” (Gilbert Police Department, 2025a).
Why This Matters Now
Gilbert Police launched the Know Your Ride campaign to explain the differences between electric bicycles and electric motorcycles and to clarify which laws apply to each. The department has emphasized education while also highlighting enforcement tools when riding is dangerous or unlawful (Gilbert Police Department, 2025a; 12News, 2025a). Local coverage has documented a rise in youth-involved crashes, including periods when the department responded to multiple e-bike injury calls in a matter of months, prompting renewed outreach and discussion of new rules (12News, 2024; 12News, 2025b). The Town Council has publicly explored options that could include helmet expectations for minors and additional local standards aimed at reducing injuries (KJZZ, 2025).
Arizona’s Three-class e-bike System (parent-friendly explanation)
Arizona law recognizes three classes of electric bicycles. A true e-bike has fully operable pedals and an electric motor of less than 750 watts. Devices without operable pedals or that exceed class limits may be categorized differently under state law, such as motor-driven cycles or electric motorcycles, which carry very different requirements (Arizona Revised Statutes § 28-101, 2025; Arizona Revised Statutes § 28-819, 2025).
- Class 1: Pedal-assist only; motor stops assisting at 20 mph.
- Class 2: Throttle capable; assistance or throttle capped at 20 mph.
- Class 3: Pedal-assist only; assistance ceases at 28 mph.
Manufacturers and distributors must affix a permanent label that shows the bike’s class, top assisted speed, and motor wattage (Arizona Revised Statutes § 28-819, 2025). That label helps parents, riders, and officers quickly understand what the device is allowed to do.
Where kids can ride under state law (baseline rules):
On public roads, e-bikes are generally treated like bicycles for licensing, registration, and insurance, unless a local rule says otherwise (Arizona Revised Statutes § 28-819, 2025). On bicycle and multi-use paths, Class 1 and Class 2 are typically allowed unless a local authority prohibits them on a specific path. Class 3 is generally not permitted on multi-use paths except when the path runs within or adjacent to a roadway or a local authority expressly allows it (Arizona Revised Statutes § 28-819, 2025).
Practical note for parents: Path access is where many riders get into trouble. Class 3, with assistance up to 28 mph, is often restricted on canal or park multi-use paths unless the path is associated with a roadway or local signs permit it. Parents should check posted signs and town information before a ride (Arizona Revised Statutes § 28-819, 2025).
What Gilbert is Doing Now
Education first. The Know Your Ride initiative explains how to tell an e-bike from an electric motorcycle and what laws apply, with the aim of reaching parents before purchase and kids before risky habits take hold (Gilbert Police Department, 2025a, 2025b). The department has communicated about safety during busy periods like back-to-school and fall break (Gilbert Police Department, 2025c).
Local rulemaking. Arizona’s statute explicitly allows cities and towns to tailor certain rules, including path access and other safety measures (Arizona Revised Statutes § 28-819, 2025). Gilbert’s leaders have publicly discussed options to reduce youth injuries; local news outlets report that council members have highlighted rising teen crashes and potential next steps (KJZZ, 2025; 12News, 2025b).
Proposed safety steps. Gilbert leaders are also considering a mix of education and enforcement tools that could include clearer path signage, targeted patrols near schools and parks, community briefings with parent groups, and the use of technology such as drones and other monitoring resources where lawful and appropriate. These ideas remain under discussion, and any adoption would be announced through the Town’s online channels and Gilbert Police updates, so families should watch for official notices as proposals move from conversation to action (12News, 2025a; Gilbert Police Department, 2025b; KJZZ, 2025).
Common e-Bike Legal Mistakes Families Can Avoid
1) Buying a device that is not an e-bike under Arizona law.
If a device lacks operable pedals or appears to exceed class limits, it may be a motor-driven cycle or electric motorcycle instead of an e-bike. That can change everything about where it may be operated and what is required of the operator (Arizona Revised Statutes § 28-101, 2025).
2) Riding Class 3 on off-road multi-use paths.
Unless specifically permitted, Class 3 e-bikes usually are not allowed on multi-use paths that are not adjacent to roadways. Families often discover this only after a citation or a close call (Arizona Revised Statutes § 28-819, 2025).
3) Assuming “no statewide helmet law” means helmets are unimportant.
Arizona does not impose a statewide helmet mandate for e-bikes, but localities can adopt additional safety measures, and schools or teams can set their own expectations. Gilbert’s public discussion has included the idea of helmets for minors in response to serious injuries (KJZZ, 2025).
4) Group rides that block traffic.
Gilbert Police have cautioned about large group rides, particularly at night or in shopping districts, that become unsafe or unlawful. Education is the first step; repeated or dangerous behavior can lead to citations and impounds (12News, 2025a; Gilbert Police Department, 2025c).
A Parent e-bike Checklist Before Your Child Rides
- Read the label. Confirm the class, top assisted speed, and motor wattage. If there is no permanent label, contact the seller or manufacturer to clarify (Arizona Revised Statutes § 28-819, 2025).
- Confirm it is truly an e-bike. Check for fully operable pedals and specifications within class limits. If not, the device may be regulated as a motor-driven cycle or electric motorcycle, which has different requirements (Arizona Revised Statutes § 28-101, 2025).
- Match the device to the route. For canal or park paths, Class 1 and 2 are usually allowed unless posted otherwise; Class 3 is typically restricted except along roadways or where local rules permit it (Arizona Revised Statutes § 28-819, 2025).
- Set family rules. Make helmets non-negotiable, require lights at night, prohibit earbuds and phone use while moving, and teach riders to obey stop signs and yield rules (Gilbert Police Department, 2025a, 2025b).
- Know the local conversation. Check the Town of Gilbert Digital Newsroom and Council agenda pages for meeting notices and ordinance updates, follow the Gilbert Police Department’s Know Your Ride page for current education and enforcement guidance, and keep an eye on the Town and GPD’s official social channels; you can also enroll in the RAVE alerts system for timely notices (Gilbert, Arizona, 2025; Gilbert Police Department, 2025a, 2025b, 2025c).
What to do if There is a Crash or a Citation
Outcomes in injury and traffic cases can hinge on classification (e-bike versus motor-driven cycle), where the device was operated (road, path, sidewalk), and whether required equipment and prudent speed were maintained. Early legal advice can help families navigate insurance questions, medical bills, and municipal citations. TVLG experienced attorneys recommend documenting the bike’s class label, the route and signage, and any relevant intersections or driveways while events are fresh.
“We are seeing matters where the classification of the device drives the outcome,” the TVLG spokesperson said. “Parents who check the label, understand path rules, and set family guidelines are protecting their kids—and themselves.”
Frequently Asked e-bike Questions for Parents:
Do kids need a driver’s license for an e-bike?
No. Arizona treats compliant e-bikes like bicycles for licensing, registration, and insurance, although bicycle rules apply, and local authorities may tailor certain path or location restrictions (Arizona Revised Statutes § 28-819, 2025).
Can my teen ride a Class 3 on the canal path?
Generally no, unless the path is within or adjacent to a roadway or local rules expressly allow it (Arizona Revised Statutes § 28-819, 2025).
Is there a helmet law?
There is no statewide e-bike helmet mandate in Arizona. However, local authorities may consider or adopt additional safety measures, and many schools or teams require helmets. Gilbert leaders have publicly discussed a helmet requirement for minors (KJZZ, 2025).
Why am I hearing about drones and e-bikes?
Gilbert Police have highlighted technology, along with education, to address illegal high-speed riding and dangerous group events (12News, 2025a; Gilbert Police Department, 2025c).
How TVLG Can Help After an e-bike Incident
If you or your child was injured on an e-bike or scooter, or if you were driving and were involved in a collision with a rider, The Valley Law Group offers a no-cost initial consultation. We help families and drivers understand their options, the likely timeline, and what to do next. Our team evaluates the facts through the lens of Arizona law, including how device classification, path rules, signage, visibility, and rider or driver conduct may affect responsibility.
During your consultation, we can:
- Outline first steps for medical care, documentation, and insurance notifications
- Review photos and videos, police reports, witness details, and location signage
- Verify device details such as class label, motor limits, and equipment
- Explain how comparative fault works in Arizona and what that means for your case
- Provide a simple action plan for the next 24 to 72 hours
We speak with injured riders, passengers, pedestrians, and drivers. Whether you were hit or you hit someone, early guidance can prevent mistakes and protect your rights. There is no obligation. Call our office to schedule a same-day or next-day appointment, or email the firm to request a time that works for you. This information is general and does not replace advice for your specific situation.
Responsible Riding Starts at Home
The best outcomes happen when parents and kids talk through device class, path access, visibility, and speed before the first ride. State law offers a clear foundation; Gilbert’s education campaign and potential local measures add important local context. “Read the label, match the class to the route, and make a helmet a habit. Those simple steps will prevent many crashes,” the TVLG spokesperson said.
About The Valley Law Group (TVLG)
The Valley Law Group offers criminal defense, personal injury, and family law services. Conveniently located in Gilbert, Phoenix, Scottsdale, and Peoria, the firm aims to help clients across Arizona navigate personal injury, family matters, and criminal disputes with clear communication and practical guidance.
References (APA 7th; URLs shown as plain text)
- 12News. (2024, April). Gilbert police start educating community about e-bike laws after 11 injury calls. Retrieved October 15, 2025, from
https://www.12news.com/article/news/local/valley/11-injury-calls-prompt-gilbert-police-start-educating-community-about-e-bike-laws-safety/75-a1b4cde7-c057-4fc9-96e2-fa90cb92929d - 12News. (2025a, October 9). Gilbert police using technology to crack down on illegal electric motorbike use. Retrieved October 15, 2025, from
https://www.12news.com/article/news/local/valley/gilbert-police-using-technology-crack-down-illegal-electric-motorbike-use-arizona/75-265259df-0f4c-4322-94f0-d20b98055b41 - 12News. (2025b, May). Mom of Gilbert teen seriously hurt in motorbike crash shares warning with community. Retrieved October 15, 2025, from
https://www.12news.com/article/news/local/valley/mom-of-gilbert-teen-seriously-hurt-in-motorbike-crash-sharing-warning-with-community/75-fa5bee42-5154-40f6-bcc8-41856db3e777 - Arizona Revised Statutes § 28-101. (2025). Definitions. Retrieved October 15, 2025, from
https://www.azleg.gov/ars/28/00101.htm - Arizona Revised Statutes § 28-819. (2025). Electric bicycles; electric standup scooters. Retrieved October 15, 2025, from
https://www.azleg.gov/ars/28/00819.htm - Gilbert Police Department. (2025a). Know Your Ride. Retrieved October 15, 2025, from
https://www.gilbertaz.gov/departments/police/about-us/know-your-ride - Gilbert Police Department. (2025b). Introducing “Know Your Ride”: Understanding e-bikes, e-motos, and the laws that apply. Digital Newsroom. Retrieved October 15, 2025, from
https://www.gilbertaz.gov/Home/Components/News/News/6458/1379 - Gilbert Police Department. (2025c). Fall break safety reminders (Know Your Ride highlights). Digital Newsroom. Retrieved October 15, 2025, from
https://www.gilbertaz.gov/Home/Components/News/News/6491/1379
KJZZ. (2025, August 27). Gilbert looking at options to reduce injuries from e-bike collisions. Retrieved October 15, 2025, from
https://www.kjzz.org/politics/2025-08-27/gilbert-looking-at-options-to-reduce-injuries-from-e-bike-collisions
Company Details
Organization: The Valley Law Group
Contact Person: Jon McCarty
Website: https://thevalleylawgroup.com
Email: Send Email
Contact Number: +14808061574
Address: 1410 W Guadalupe Rd
Address 2: Ste. 101
City: Gilbert
State: Arizona
Country: United States
Release Id: 21102535772